Welcome to the Paul Tripp podcast, where pastor and bestselling author Dr. Paul David Tripp connects the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life.

Today, Paul is going to answer four questions about parenting children in our fallen world.

First up, Paul answers the question, why is parenting so hard?

Here's Paul.

If you're a parent, I probably don't have to tell you that parenting is challenging.

It has probably drawn out of you things that you didn't think were

there. And I think the Bible isn't incredibly helpful in helping us to understand why this is so

challenging. Think about this. What is parenting? It's a flawed person who's commissioned

to give direction and guidance and help to a flawed person. Does that discourage you?

Well, I'm not done, but with a faithful God.

You see it, parenting is hard because it's a sinner with a sinner.

And what's the DNA of sin?

2 Corinthians 515 tells us it's selfishness.

I don't want to be disagreed with.

I don't want to be challenged. I don't want somebody to make my day difficult.

I want children who say, yes, father, I will forthwith go and obey you because you sir are wise.

But I don't get that.

And so it's the selfishness of my child that hooks my selfishness.

It's important to understand that there's a reason why it's a struggle.

But it's also important to understand that God knew you would struggle.

So at some point he would come, live the life that you couldn't live,

die the death you should have died, so you would have every single thing you need as a parent.

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